Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Just three months on from Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnston and Brayden Rawlins’ mammoth fundraising efforts totalling just under $14,000 for men’s mental health, the boys have laced up their running shoes to continue spreading an important message.
Austin, Campbell and Brayden have each witnessed friends and family members experience the toll negative mental health can have, and hope to continue breaking down the stigmas surrounding men’s mental health, sharing the vital message, “It Ain’t Weak To Speak”.
In November of last year, the trio well and truly did just that, and successfully spread waves of awareness both locally within the Burdekin and across the state when they set out to run 180 kilometres each – one for each life tragically lost every month to suicide.
“After we raised $1,000 for men’s mental health and suicide prevention, all three of us knew the sky was the limit, and we wanted to see how far we could take this,” shared Campbell.
The trio knocked over hundreds of kilometres and put in the work from sunrise to sunset across the entire month and were beyond grateful when over 100 members of the Burdekin community joined them to tick off some of their final k’s at a Queen Street fundraising event last November.
“At the run we did in the Burdekin, all three of us were not expecting there to be more than 100 people there - I don’t think we even expected there to be even 50 people there,” explained Brayden.
“After the run, everyone got around and were talking to each other and to us, congratulating us on what we’re doing, and people were telling us that we’re doing a great job of spreading awareness and fundraising which for us was a real eye opener.”
Keeping the momentum, Austin, Campbell and Brayden shared a video which has since gone viral, explaining they’re not holding out until this November to jog on and instead are challenging themselves to complete 100 kilometres each this March to continue spreading their mission and encouraging conversations.
“The Shaka Project announced they’re running 100 kilometres in March for Run for Our Mates so all of us boys sat down and realised we want to push our message to show people that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes,” noted Campbell.
Campbell, Brayden and Austin will run 100 kilometers each this March (Photo Supplied)
Members of the Burdekin community are warmly encouraged to take part in an upcoming FREE Suicide Intervention Training session hosted by CORES Queensland at the Burdekin PCYC on Friday the 28th of March.
Suicide Intervention Training aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to identify early warning signs, offer support, and connect at-risk individuals with available services.
The upcoming workshop will cover essential topics including:
• Recognising the early warning signs of suicide
• Learning how to support someone in crisis
• Encouraging help-seeking behaviour before a crisis occurs
• Developing self-care strategies for those offering support
Held on occasion, each of the CORES Queensland Suicide Intervention Training sessions are completely FREE and open to all members of the local community, and RSVP’s can be made online at https://bit.ly/4gIL6bD.
By Amanda Wright
Tears of relief replaced weeks of frustration for North Queensland’s flood-affected farmers as the Federal and Queensland governments approved an increase in disaster funding, boosting grants for primary producers to $75,000.
The announcement, delivered by Senator Nita Green and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter on March 12, comes after weeks of intense advocacy from industry leaders, local politicians, and the farming community. The decision also increases funding for small businesses and not-for-profits to $50,000.
The announcement was made at the farm of CANEGROWERS members Michael and Zenan Reinaudo, whose family property suffered severe flood damage. Their experience mirrors that of many other farmers across the region.
Bob Katter, who has been at the forefront of the push for Category D funding, credited the win to relentless efforts from agricultural organisations and local representatives.
“This funding wasn’t handed down from the heavens—it was won by the fighters on the ground who never backed down,” Mr Katter said.
He singled out CANEGROWERS’ Leah Russo, AgForce Queensland’s Shane McCarthy, and QCAR’s Lawrence Di Bella for their unwavering efforts.
“Yes, we thank the PM and the Minister, but it’s because of this group of people with a tiger in their tank that the grants have finally been activated,” he said.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the increased support, emphasising that the original $25,000 grant was nowhere near enough to help growers rebuild.
“This increase reflects the rising costs of recovery for growers who have been hit hard by recent flooding,” Mr Galligan said.
“We’ve been clear from the beginning that the original amount was simply inadequate. This boost will make a real difference for those struggling to rebuild.”
QCAR General Manager Lawrence Di Bella described the funding boost as a step in the right direction, though challenges remain.
“This is a really positive step—it will rebuild our industry. Some of the damage is greater than $75,000, so we’ll still be looking for additional funding, but this is a great start,” Mr Di Bella said.
“The money that a farmer produces goes around our community multiple times. This is about rebuilding our entire community, not just individual farms.”
Mr Di Bella spoke of the sheer devastation farmers have faced.
“There were craters the size of swimming pools, tonnes of trash dumped on newly planted sugarcane, headlands washed away, trees uprooted, new creeks carved through fields, dead calves littering paddocks—the list goes on,” he said.
“Now there will be tears of relief with the release of Category D grants.”
AgForce Queensland General President Shane McCarthy agreed, calling the announcement a lifeline.
“This goes a long way to getting farmers back up and producing, which is what they need to do,” Mr McCarthy said.
“It’s not just this flood—it’s the accumulation of a few tough seasons. We need to get our producers back up and doing what they do best.”
Despite the funding win, industry leaders stress that further work is needed to ensure all farmers receive fair support.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan noted that current eligibility rules could leave some struggling farmers behind.
“We must now make sure the funding is fair and reaches those who need it,” Mr Ryan said.
Senator Nita Green reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting North Queensland’s recovery.
“This is all part of a bigger disaster recovery response from our two governments,” Senator Green said.
“We will continue to work with people on the ground to identify areas where funding or criteria can be improved.”
For Burdekin farmers, the funding boost brings hope after weeks of uncertainty. However, as industry leaders continue to advocate for further changes, the focus remains on ensuring all affected growers receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.
“This isn’t just about fixing damage—it’s about restoring livelihoods,” Mr Galligan said.
“Our growers have fought hard for this, and we’ll keep fighting to ensure they get the support they deserve.”
QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter, Cane farmer Robert Lyon, Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River Leah Russo, Senator Nita Green, AgForce North Queensland Regional Director Michael Penny, Director Herbert River District Canegrowers Paul Marbelli, and Cane farmer Michael Reinaudo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Recently a beautiful and rare china tea set, which depicts the Ayr Council Chambers and the Ayr Post Office, made its way to a local radio station. The station is calling on any Burdekin historians or those who might be familiar with the family that donated them, to come forward and help solve a mystery.
“They were sent to Pat Lawson via Victor Cecchin. The Cecchin's had a service station back in the day before they sold it to Romeo motors. After that, I believe it was demolished to become Woolworths,” says Station Manager, Charlie Scuderi.
“These people now live in Sydney, and sent these pieces back up here because this is where they belong. The family doesn't have any emotional connection to them, and that's all we know.”
The fine tea set has now returned “home” to the Burdekin, but it has come with no clues, no answers. Sweet FM is hoping someone in the community can provide more information or context about the tea set as to their history.
“We're looking for somebody who might know the story behind them, such as where they came out, when they came from, and why.”
“Was it an anniversary for a 50 year celebration? Was it something the family had commissioned? If you know please help us,” Charlie pleads.
Two pieces depict the council chambers, the rest depict Ayr post office.
If you can solve the mystery behind this decorative commemorative china tea set, get in touch with Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.
The beautiful fine china tea set. Can you solve the mystery? Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Since 2013, Phil Derlagen, who owns Complete Health Pharmacy in Home Hill, has been servicing the community. This half Dutch, half Sicilian pharmacist, who graduated in 2010 from Townsville, doesn’t see any two days the same, with a typical one involving a whole range of varying aspects.
“You’ve got to be prepared to see lots of different things. People come in and ask questions that can be straightforward, and at other times it can be quite challenging. For example, trying to make sure that they understand something might be serious and that they need to take it to the doctor. That's probably one of the hardest things,” Phil expresses.
At just 39, Phil noticed changes in the way people now view healthcare, with many taking control of their health needs.
“People like to come to pharmacists because we're just so readily accessible and knowledgeable. After moving to this location near IGA in 2018, we renamed it Complete Health Pharmacy because I saw a shift towards a lot of natural based medicines,” Phil says.
“There are now a lot of people who swear by natural products and it's hard to dismiss. People are actually getting results from some of the treatments they’re doing. It’s a such a growing market. We do a lot of research into the products before we even stock them,” Phil adds.
Complete Health Pharmacy – the one-stop-shop for all your health needs where people go to get good, honest advice in the process.
Phil Derlagen, the pharmacists' pharmacist. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The floods may have subsided, but the spirit of community in Burdekin remains as strong as ever.
Amidst the devastation that swept through Ingham, a shining beacon of kindness emerged in the form of a man named Troy. When a couple travelling to Townsville became stranded at Plantation Creek on Saturday afternoon, it was the generosity of locals that turned their ordeal into a testament to human kindness.
Troy, a local business owner, offered them a meal and a place to stay for the night—an act of compassion that left them deeply grateful. Earlier in the day, a resident and her daughter provided them with a much-needed cup of coffee, while Suzie from the Drive-In made them a toastie for lunch.
After waiting most of the day for the road to clear, the couple made the difficult decision to leave their car behind. Fortunately, a kind-hearted truck driver offered them a lift all the way to Townsville, ensuring they made it home safely.
Though they eventually had to return to retrieve their vehicle, they remain overwhelmed by the kindness they encountered. They expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Plantation Creek community, describing them as “wonderful people.”
This heartwarming display of generosity serves as a reminder that even in challenging times, small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
Making it the number one priority of his visit to the Burdekin last week, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, presented Vietnam veteran, Greg Walters, with a Certificate of Appreciation, recognising his service given in the Defence Force.
Mr Willcox also presented the Home Hill RSL with an Australian Flag, which was greatly appreciated and warmly received by the RSL. The members were also witness to Mr Walter receiving his honorary award, making it a notable occasion.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, was delighted to be able to express his gratitude to Greg Walters, and to do so in person after sacrificing so much for his country, was an honour as he handed over the certificate.
“I was pleased to present Greg with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service during the Vietnam War,” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.
“Greg’s willingness to put his life on the line for the sake of our country is greatly appreciated.”
Greg, who is now retired and no longer in the Australian armed forces, was both surprised and honoured to receive the award, as it was something he wasn’t expecting.
“It was a great day, and I have already found a spot at home to hang up the Certificate of Appreciation,” Greg said on the special day.
The recent visit, marks yet another occasion that Mr. Andrew Willcox has truly admired and been in awe of the local Burdekin community, many of which seem to always surprise him every time he stops to meet them.
“When I am not down in Canberra for Parliament, I get in the 4WD and hit the Bruce Highway and stop into Regional Queensland towns from Mackay to Townsville,”
“The thing I really love about being the Federal Member for Dawson is meeting incredible people each day and hearing their stories.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox with Greg Walters (left) holding his certificate of appreciation, in front of the donated Australian flag along with fellow RSL members in attendance. Photo: Supplied
The Burdekin Panthers teams had a successful weekend. The Ladies’ and Men’s Division One teams played in Townsville on Friday, with the Ladies winning 7-0 against Wulguru and the Men drawing 1-1 with Saints Eagles Souths. On Saturday, the Under 23s won 4-2 against Rebels, and the Premiers triumphed 2-1. The Premiers' win marked their first of the season, with Damien Casella and Ryan Scodellaro scoring to secure a 2-1 victory. The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves also fought hard for a 4-2 win, while the Austral Masonry First Division drew 1-1 against Saints Eagles Souths.
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies bounced back from a tough match against Brothers, defeating Wulguru 7-0. Ellyana Mugica, Tegan Johnson, Charley Ruskin, Sienna Lago, and Zandi Bonanno scored in the dominant performance. The Ladies will aim for more wins, facing Saints Eagles Souths next Friday.
In juniors, Round 1 kicked off with high spirits despite the heat. Registrations were higher than last year, and the club is working to reconfigure age groups. Masters also had a successful Monday match, with Fulham beating Manchester Utd 4-1.
Nationally, the Socceroos prepare for World Cup qualifiers against Indonesia and China in March. In the A-League, Auckland leads with a six-point advantage over Western Utd, while Melbourne City moved up to third. In the A-League Women, Melbourne City is top, followed by Melbourne Victory in second.
The Quote of the Week comes from Gordon Strachan, humorously commenting on Eric Cantona’s bizarre press conference: "If a Frenchman goes on about seagulls, trawlers, and sardines, he’s called a philosopher. I’d just be called a short Scottish bum talking crap."
My journey here at Burdekin Life has come to an end. Don’t cry. Don’t get angry. Don’t wonder why? Just laugh. That’s what keeps the rocking world going round. If I’ve learned anything in this life, it’s that we all need to laugh more. Life is already hard enough as it is to be taken so seriously all the time. Have a laugh, even at me. I don’t mind. Really, I don’t.
However, I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to each and every one of you who helped my time within, and outside these pages, so memorable.
I’ve met some truly remarkable people doing truly remarkable things. You’ve each shared your personal stories, struggles, triumphs and more, and put your absolute trust and belief in me. It has been my honour to retell those stories to the best of my abilities. I truly hope I did them proud.
My family and I have been incredibly grateful to be welcomed here into this wonderful community at a time when everything was in flux for us after returning home from 10+ years overseas. There’s a reason the Burdekin, and in particular, Home Hill, found us. And there’s more than enough reasons to want to stay. But it won’t be in the capacity of your local journo.
What’s next? The great unknown! That’s where the real magic is (and always has been). I’ve certainly ventured there many times before to always be surprised. Outside of having our second baby (and my third), the possibilities are infinite.
All I can say now is Thank You to each and every one you who made an impact in my world. I am forever grateful. For now, keep on truckin’.
Sincerely,
Mark T. Rasmussen
International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated on 8 March, is a global occasion that honours and commemorates the ongoing fight for women's equality and liberation, as well as the broader women's rights movement. The day highlights issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and abuse towards women.
This year’s celebration was described as an inspiring event, filled with meaningful conversations, delicious food, and a shared commitment to ‘Accelerate Action’ for gender equality. Over 150 women gathered at a sold-out event, united in their support and solidarity for the cause.
Isabel Stubbs, President of the Zonta Club of Burdekin, was thrilled to be part of a special International Women’s Day event on 9 March at the Masonic Hall. The event, which featured a brunch and various prizes, sold out within a single day.
Caterina Larsen Burdekin Zonta's Secretary reflected on the success of the event, saying, "It was a very wonderful event, so we're extremely happy."
"Our committee did a debrief last night and we realised that there are some areas for improvement, but on the whole, we were very, very happy with how the day turned out."
The Zonta Club, which consists of 20 members, raises funds for vital projects such as birthing kits, priced at just $5 each, and Breast Care cushions, which are distributed both locally and internationally. The club also supports local STEM students and provides essential items to victims of domestic violence.
The club’s commitment to empowering women and girls has had a profound impact on the progress of women's rights, education, and leadership opportunities. The Zontians’ unwavering dedication continues to inspire and drive positive change in society, ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive and reach her full potential.
Membership to the Zonta Club involves international, district, and local fees, totalling approximately £240. Through their collective efforts, the Zontians are helping to build a brighter future for women and girls across the globe.
Find the social pics here! https://tinyurl.com/247ezhxw
13 promising young lifesavers from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club are heading south for the 2025 Queensland Youth Surf Life Saving Championships on the Gold Coast.
The Championships, which includes clubs from all across Queensland, are scheduled to take place at Tugun from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th of March, with four action packed days of water, beach and lifesaving events.
This cohort of 13 nippers is one of the biggest groups to head to State Titles as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth Team, and includes: Isla Chapman, Bella Lawry, Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Mia Wicks, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale and Taylor Chapman.
To be selected in the NBB Youth Team members have to compete at regular Branch Carnivals including Branch Championships and the North Australian Championships, which were all held at the end of 2024, and qualify against other members from all clubs across the Branch.
This year the Branch team consists of 77 youth members from across the North Barrier (clubs from Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina).
All members have continued a vigorous training program since being selected at Branch Championships in December and are ready and raring to give it their absolute all over the upcoming Championships.
Photo credit: Kellie Lawry
U14s and U15s: Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman, Briella Wassmuth and Bella Lawry
on their way to State Champs!
U11s: Charlotte Dale, Luca Lawry and Taylor Chapman
U12: Mia Wicks
U13: Milla Chapman, Emma Jones and Cole Pontifex
U13: Charlotte Lawry and Emilee Wassmuth
Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of their parent & community committee (P&C), Osborne State School are pleased to announce that they will be completely fee-free for 2025!
Just a short 5-6 minute drive from Home Hill, this small but vibrant school not only creates a leaning environment where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive, but they can now attend for free thanks to their Fee-Free incentive.
“This year we wanted to do something that focused more on encouraging new students to enrol in our school, as well as supporting those already here. Coming out of Christmas and all the financial burdens that come at the end of the year, to then jump into January to pay school fees, well, we didn't want our parents to have to do that this year,” Carlene Muilwyk, President of P&C at Osborne State School says.
Everyone knows that school fees can be an added strain, and this initiative is Osborne's way of supporting both students and their families, especially those with multiple kids attending.
“We wanted to be able to give families that relief if they're sending more than one student to school. We also provide all stationery, books, a shirt and hat. We’re just trying to take that pressure off of parents so that schooling becomes something that is not a burden, because it shouldn’t be.”
Getting to Osborne State School has never been easier either, with a reliable bus service running from Ham Kelly Drive all the way to Home Hill High, ensuring students have a safe, convenient way to get to and from school each day.
With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong sense of community, the school offers an education that goes beyond the classroom – fostering hands-on learning, exciting events, and opportunities for every child to shine.
“We have nine students to two teachers. We also have three teachers aides. This helps us to really engage one on one with students, while ensuring individual care to make sure that no one gets lost in the system,” Carlene says.
Described as a family school, to best illustrate that point, last year one of their students lost their home to a fire. Rather than be forced to face the devastation alone, the school gathered around them and got clothes and other items together.
If you're looking for a caring, high-quality education for your child, now is the perfect time to join. Come see why Osborne State School isn’t just a school, it’s a family.
“We're here to learn, but we're here to support each other in every way. When you enrol with us, you join our family,” Carlene concludes with a smile.
Enrolments for 2025 are open. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact Osborne State School on: (07) 4782 6254.
Billy Muilwyk, Alex Cullen and Mason Harvey, in front of the painted float for their Home Hill Harvest Festival parade. Photo supplied.
Osborne State School student Jake Cullen is all smiles. Photo supplied.
Anna Muilwyk and Isabella McGrath sitting in front of a Wilmar Cane train and can bins full of harvested cane. Photo supplied.
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Did you know that BCA is running a number of groups? The details of a few of them are below.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS GROUP (Free)
Come along to the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.
Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am
Operating hours: 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
After going through a rigorous assessment process and a long wait time of over 12 months since getting a job offer, Dr. Masoud Torbatian, a GP with over 30 years of experience, has now joined the Home Hill Surgery.
“I have been working as a GP for more than 30 years. I’m a general practitioner with expertise in various fields of medicine like chronic disease management, older person’s health, child and women’s health. I have worked in clinics, but also in very busy hospitals, too,” Dr. Torbatian shares.
Dr. Tata, who had been advertising for a male doctor since February last year, is delighted to have another male physician join the clinic and share the load, knowing it’s something his male patients in particular have been eager for, as he explains.
“I advertised online in February last year. I was desperate after three of my male doctors suddenly resigned to pursue careers for themselves down south. From there, I left no stone unturned. I looked everywhere, so when Masoud applied online, it all moved forward from there” Dr Tata says.
“I wanted somebody with a lot of experience. He has a wealth of experience with over 30 years in general practice. While he is here to fill in some big shoes, I’m sure there's a lot of people that want to come and see him. I hope the community welcomes him with a big heart,” he adds.
With a liking for warm weather, and an enjoyment of running in wide open space, the Burdekin feels like a great fit for Dr. Torbatian.
“I like Australia, I’m familiar with this country, and so now I get to work as a GP here, which has been my ultimate goal,” Dr. Torbatian concludes.
Dr. Torbatian, who will officially start March 17 as they wait for his provider number, will now make the sixth doctor working out of Home Hill Surgery.
Meet Dr. Torbatian, Home Hill Surgery's new male doctor. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The State Recovery Coordinator’s visit to the Burdekin early this week is a significant step in both the recovery from the recent severe weather event and an indicator of the State Government’s commitment to build back stronger according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.
Mr Last said that meeting with stakeholders throughout the district would provide a comprehensive view of what still needed to be done to ensure the best recovery possible.
“The Crisafulli LNP government pulled out all the stops to support the community both during and after the weather event,” Mr Last said. “We had financial support, for example, available for families and businesses before the flooding had even subsided but we recognise recovery is not just about money.”
“Part of the State Recovery Coordinator’s role is to identify specific recovery needs in communities so ‘on the ground consultation’ is vitally important. A family in Giru, for example, may need assistance with repairs to their home while a family at Groper Creek may be more focussed on being better prepared for the next event.”
“It’s virtually impossible to undo all of the effects of weather events like this but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways that we can support our key industries and therefore, reduce the damage to the community’s and the state’s economy.”
“For the first time, farmers have been given financial support to replant crops because recovery needs to be about the medium term as well as immediate issues. There will always be room for improvement and that is another good reason for the State Recovery Coordinator to engage with residents, industry and business representatives.”
Mr Last said the appointment of a north Queenslander to the role would ensure a clear understanding of the challenges faced in the region and also ensure the government’s commitment was honoured.
“Andrew Cripps is a born and bred north Queenslander,” he said. “Hailing from Tully, the importance of the sugar industry and the role that industry plays in the community is second nature to him and that is vitally important for the Burdekin.”
“While centres throughout the north have their traditional rivalries, it’s great that we have someone who understands the importance of infrastructure. Roads for example, are a vital link to work, to family, and to health care because public transport simply isn’t an option.”
“The Premier has given his personal assurance that our recovery will remain a priority despite recent weather events in the South-East corner. By having a local in charge of our recovery, it ensures that we aren’t forgotten just because the TV cameras have moved on.”
“My commitment is the same as the Premier’s when it comes to the Burdekin and wider north Queensland. The recovery process will be thorough and will continue for as long as it takes because that is, quite simply, what we deserve.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
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